Research

Training in the Network Science PhD program follows a research mentorship model, combining coursework with close research collaborations between students and faculty.

Years 1–2: Emphasis on coursework and research performed under the guidance of your faculty advisor.

Years 3–5: Activities shift toward completion of your research in collaboration with faculty.

From the very beginning of your doctoral studies, you will be deeply engaged in research activities, dedicated to respectful, meaningful discourse and rigorous collaborative exchange that embodies the spirit of the Network Science Institute. You’ll work closely with a research group on intensive projects—in areas such as epidemiology (disease networks), political science (mis/information networks), brain science (neural networks), group performance (social networks), and urban planning (infrastructure networks)—in preparation to independently develop research questions and conduct your own analyses.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact faculty and inquire about specific projects and research interests. New projects are always in development.

Research Projects and Accomplishments

Network Science PhD students have published articles in peer-reviewed journals, presented at industry conferences, received fellowships and awards, and organized symposiums, research roundtables, and other events. See recent examples below.

This event gives students a platform to present and receive feedback about their research from other students, postdocs, and faculty. The purpose is to display the diversity of research that is completed through the Institute and provide a forum to initiate possible future collaborations.

Bootcamps

Network science is an interdisciplinary and thriving area requiring a wide range of knowledge from various fields. Because students come from heterogeneous backgrounds, there is a lot of variation in incoming knowledge, particularly with the many disciplines they will need to master.

In Fall 2017 and 2018, the Network Science Graduate Student Association (NetSI GSA) hosted a bootcamp to kick off the first term. This bootcamp served as an academic orientation, providing a broad overview of topics students need to know. The primary goal is to reduce incoming students’ “unknown unknowns” while providing the tools and resources students need to succeed in the Network Science PhD program.

Roundtables

Research Roundtable events feature presentations in a friendly and collaborative environment, typically given by two postdocs within the Institute. PhD students are encouraged to ask any and all questions about the research process—from original idea to published paper. Presenters discuss a project they have completed, one they are looking for feedback or collaboration on, or anything else! Food and drinks are provided by the Network Science Graduate Student Association and the Northeastern Graduate Student Government.